Cartagena Cruises – Cruise to Cartagena with P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises now offer a selection of cruises that include the city of Cartagena as a Port-of-Call.

An ancient city with a name to match – it was founded more than 2,200 years ago by Carthaginian leader Hasdrubal – Cartagena is now one of Spains busiest commercial centres. Step ashore here, though, and you are immediately aware of its rich history. In fact, you see it even as you cruise towards the harbour as this is flanked by towering fortresses. Then, in the centre of the old town, you will find the original Carthaginian castle and sections of the old city walls.

But Cartagena is also a city which moves with the times hence the new harbourfront development which includes the unique National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. As part of Murcia province, Cartagena cruise port is also an excellent base for visiting the city of Murcia itself and its distinctive Baroque cathedral; the 17th century religious sanctuary of Fuensanta; the Fortress at Lorca Taller del Tiempo; the spa resort of Balneario de Archena; and for touring into the mountainous interior or along the Costa Blanca to Alicante.

A full list of the P&O cruises that feature Cartagena as a Port of Call can be found here:

P&O Cartagena Cruises also feature a fantastic selection of shore excursions. We’ve listed a few of the most popular excursions below. Please check the P&O Cartagena Excursions page for a complete list of current excursions.

A Tale of Two Cities
Glimpse the ‘real’ Spain with a visit to the charming provincial capital of Murcia, rounded off with a walking tour of Cartagena.

Delve into the heart of the Old Quarter at Murcia with a visit to the 13th century Cathedral, the façade of which is considered to be one of the best examples of baroque architecture in Spain. In the interior, the stone tracery of the late Gothic ‘Velez Chapel’ is sure to impress.

Enjoy a refreshment before visiting the Sanctuary of the Fuensanta, one of the region’s most revered religious sanctuaries. Of particular note are the frescoes on the interior of the dome, depicting the yearly pilgrimage of the statue of the Virgin.

A panoramic walking tour of Cartagena, beautifully situated on the superb natural harbour, starts off with a stroll past the monument to the Heroes of Cavite and the Town Hall. Admire the 18th century doorway of the Casino and the delightful modernist houses. Hear of the history behind the Roman Theatre and its commemorative descriptions.

Complete Cartagena
Exciting new centres and museums give an entertaining insight into the chequered history of this city.

The fascinating Centre of Cartagena History is situated in the Tower of Homage, one of the few buildings that remain from the Castle of Conception. Here, up-to-date technology helps you to enjoy a relaxing ‘journey’ through the different civilisations. Enjoy panoramic views over the city and see the site of the Roman Theatre, discovered by chance in 1897.

Enter the Punic world in The Interpretation Centre of the Punic Wall, which protects the remains of the wall once used to defend Cartagena. An informative audio-visual presentation will highlight the Punic Wars from the viewpoint of one of the characters. A visit will be made to the 16th century crypt to see the now faint frescoes of Death, the Great Leveller, dancing on the Papal Crown.

The Roman period is well represented by 2 visits beneath the modern city. The Decumano will show you a tract on the main Roman thoroughfare, lined with the remains of the thermal baths and shops.

Elche
Visit the World Heritage Site of Elche and enjoy a tasting of local delicacies

Set in the heart of Costa Blanca, Elche is surrounded by thousands of palm trees, which were originally introduced by the Phoenicians in around 300 BC. Enjoy a stroll along the paths between the ponds and the abundant plants, shrubs, trees and cacti in the Priest’s Garden. The Garden’s focal point is the magnificent eight trunked ‘Imperial Palm’. Treat your taste buds to a specially-prepared tasting of local produce such as dates, fig bread, dried apricots and date liqueur, while you admire a demonstration of how a palm tree is pruned.

In the old town centre, a short visit will be made to the Basilica de Santa Maria. This delightful, blue-domed baroque church, built in the 17th century is where the yearly passion play, the ‘Mystery of Elche’ is held.

Stroll through the tranquil Municipal Park, before enjoying some free time to explore Elche on your own.

Lovely Lorca
Wander through the cathedral city of Lorca and admire the unique mix of Moorish narrow streets and fabulous baroque architecture.

Over 2,000 years of history combined with rich baroque architecture and artistic patrimony make Lorca a fascinating city to discover.

Your first stop is at the Embroidery Museum, where you will see fantastic displays of local work. Admire the spectacular beauty and intricate workmanship, which went in to producing all of the embroidered displays in gold and silk. Your guide will also explain why the town’s Holy Week celebration has been declared a national celebration of great tourist interest.

Lorca is renowned as the land of craftsmen, so enjoy a visit to the Regional Craft Centre, which exhibits many local works including pottery, embroidery, leather and glass. You may even wish to purchase a piece of art to remind you of your visit.

A guided walking tour allows you to discover more about this intriguing town. Have your camera at the ready as you pass by many of the town’s most important buildings, the Town Hall, the church of San Patricio, declared a conservation area in 1941 and the Guerra Theatre, the oldest theatre in the region. After your tour you will have some free time to shop or enjoy a drink in one of the many cafés.

Terra Natura Wildlife and Water Park
Be prepared for a new generation of wildlife park combined with a water park. Discover ‘zooimmersion’ and get up close and personal with nature!

‘Zooimmersion’ is a new concept in habitat design, which allows you to come into contact with the animals as if there were no barriers – at least, no visible ones! Terra Natura Murcia offers 165,445m² of park where you can see over 300 animals from zebras, gazelles, giraffes and hippopotamus, there are 50 species including 3 endangered species. This new generation of wildlife park is home to more than 50 species of trees and plants and also offers the excitement of a water park with rides and entertainment for all the family.

There are 2 themed areas to discover: African Savannah and Iberian Peninsula. Marvel at the majestic flight of 2 peregrine falcons, a female eagle owl, a kestrel and two Harris Hawks. Get up close with the animals, by meeting the keepers and don’t forget feeding time! Whatever you choose to do, Terra Natura is guaranteed to be a great day out for all the family.

La Manga Beach Transfer
Enjoy a relaxing time on the beach.

Known as one of the historic summer resorts in Spain, La Manga del Mar Menor offers you the opportunity to enjoy the Spanish coast’s white sand beaches, which also offer a selection of water activities.

Once you have enjoyed the beach, why not take some time to explore the extensive selection of bars and restaurants.

You will find the full and current list of P&O Cartagena Shore Excursions at